Vault Early Papers of the University Box 1 Folder 1860 Cornerstone Ceremony 1

Gonzales Texas Sept. 25th 1860

Rt. Rev. James H. Otey D.D.

Dear Bishop,

Your card and accompanying note inviting me to be present & participate in the ceremonies of laying the Corner Stone of the "University of the South", reached me by the mail to day. I rejoice that this great work has advanced to this interesting & important stage, & nothing could give me greater pleasure than to be pres =sent on the 10th of Oct. and join in the interesting Services, but unfortunately I find the purse of a western Missionary too light to justify the expense of the trip. I feel the deepest {insert symbol: interest in the} success of the enterprise, and I have no doubt that all

that its most sanquin friends antici=pate will be fully realized.

With best wishes for your health & happiness I am

Very respectfully

Your Obt. Servant

J. M. Goshorn

Rt. Rev. J. H. Otey D.D.

University Place

Franklin Co.

Tenn.

Okolona Oct 5th / 60

Rev J H Otey

Dear Sir

I have delayed answering your complimentary favor of the 5th Sept hoping I might be able to attend the laying of the corner stone of the University of the South. Circum-stances being such as preclude all possibility of my attendance.

I return you my

most hearty thanks for the complimentary invitation of the Executive Committee and my earnest wish for the prosperity of the Institution. Which shall ever have my warmest support.

Very respectfully

Your Obt Serv't

James Gordon

Austin Oct. 2d 1860

Rt Rev & Dear Sir

The invitation of the Executive Committee to be present at the laying of "the Corner Stone of the principal building of the University of the South" is before me. I regret exceedingly that my duties will not permit me to be present on that occasion -- No ceremony of the kind has ever transpired in this country of equal importance, and none is likely again to transpire of equal magnitude, during the age of any now living -- May He "with-out whom nothing is strong, and nothing is holy," preside over this work, and continually sanctify every effort put forth for its advancement, until the cap-stone shall be brought forth with shoutings of praise to Him unto whom be all honor, and praise, and glory